Barry Keith Steffey Jr.

Barry Keith Steffey Jr., 57, passed away peacefully on Friday October 30, 2026, at the Cleveland Clinic following years of a courageous and hard-fought battle with Parkinson’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia. Barry was born on March 25, 1969, in Warren, Ohio, the son of Barry Sr. and Frances (Pyne) Steffey.

Barry was a 1987 graduate of Howland High School. A dedicated provider and hard worker, he took great pride in caring for his family throughout his life. His work ethic was evident from an early age, beginning his career in the food industry at just 16 years old as a dishwasher. Through determination, perseverance, and a willingness to do whatever was needed, he rose through the ranks to become a General Manager with the Perkins Restaurant franchise.

Barry spent many years managing the family-owned Nicolino’s Restaurant in Niles, Ohio. There, he built lasting friendships and relationships, becoming not just an employee, but a cherished member of the family.

He went on to enjoy a successful career as a salesman serving customers throughout Eastern Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. Barry officially retired in 2024 from the family-owned Wholesome Food Services, Inc. after more than twenty years of service. He treasured the friendships he made along the way and often spoke of his coworkers as some of his closest friends.

Barry was deeply committed to serving his community and making a lasting difference in the city he called home. He served as Treasurer of the Niles Democratic Club and as a board member and president of Avenue & Main. For many years, he proudly organized Harry Stevens Hot Dog Day, bringing neighbors and community members together for a tradition that became a meaningful part of the community. His dedication to public service included serving as Fourth Ward Councilman and President of Council for several terms. In 2018, following the retirement of Mayor Scarnecchia, he was appointed Interim Mayor. He was also actively involved in the Neighborhood Watch, reflecting his commitment to keeping his community safe and looking out for those around him.

His love for his community extended far beyond the positions he held. He believed in showing up, getting involved, bringing people together, and making a difference. His years of service left a lasting mark on the community and the people fortunate enough to know him.

Barry's greatest pride and joy was his family. Nothing meant more to him than watching his children grow into successful, caring adults, and he loved each of them with his whole heart. He found immense joy in being present for every stage of their lives, whether he was coaching basketball, proudly sitting as a "dance dad" at recitals, cheering from the sidelines at soccer games, attending band performances, supporting drama club productions, or countless other activities. No matter what they were involved in, Barry was always there. His greatest goal was simply to make sure his children were happy, healthy, and knew how deeply they were loved. They will forever miss his famous egg sandwiches and the love that came with them.

Family time was always a priority, and Barry was happiest when everyone was together. Some of his most cherished memories were made during family trips to the Outer Banks, weekends at the family camp in PA, and gatherings filled with board games, karaoke, and endless laughter. Holidays held a special place in his heart, not because of the occasion itself, but because they brought the people he loved most together and allowed new traditions and memories to be made.

Of all the titles Barry held throughout his life, one of his favorites was "Papa." He treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren and delighted in being part of their lives. Whether through simple everyday moments or special adventures, he created countless memories they will carry with them forever, including a trip to Disney World and a cruise to the Bahamas. The love he had for his grandchildren was immeasurable, and the bond they shared was one of the greatest blessings of his life.

Barry was an avid sports fan and a devoted supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Cavaliers. Few things brought him more joy than watching his favorite teams play, and Steelers game days were always filled with excitement, anticipation, and plenty of passion. Win or lose, Barry proudly waved his Terrible Towel and cheered on his Steelers with unwavering loyalty. His enthusiasm for the game was contagious, and watching sports with family and friends created countless memories that will be treasured for years to come.

Barry is survived by his wife of 27 years, Michele May Steffey whom he married on June 26, 1999; children, Amanda (Chris) LaBenne M.D. of Raleigh, North Carolina, Alexandra (Cody) Hugaboom of Struthers, Anthony “AJ” (Maria) Steffey of Poland, Alyssa Steffey (Stephen Delcoma) of Fairlawn, Abigail Steffey of Cuyahoga Falls; four grandchildren, Evelyn, Vivian, Theodore, Silas; two sisters, Kim (Craig) Weimer of Niles, Michelle “Shelly” Steffey of Howland; mother-in-law, Debbie Bobby of Howland; nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, Joshua (Hailey) Nix, Rebekah Nix. Sage Nix, Nathan Nix, Jacob (Bobbie) Weimer, Michael Weimer, Maggie Weimer, Kassidy Weimer, Theo and Maeve, many cousins, extended family, friends, and his beloved cats.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Christopher Steffey; and father-in-law, Chris Bobby. In one final act of generosity, Barry gave the gift of life through eye, bone, and tissue donation.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 14 at the Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home in Niles. A memorial service will follow at 1 p.m., at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to THE MICHAEL J. FOX FOUNDATION for Parkinson’s Research.

Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home 126 West Park Avenue, Niles, Ohio 44446 330-652-4311.